Questions to ask when buying a used car in the UAE

History and ownership

• Is it GCC spec or imported? And from where? See GCC vs US spec cars.
• How many owners has it had? And how long have you owned it?
• Why are you selling? A believable reason, such as moving or upgrading, matters.
• Has it ever been in an accident? And has any panel been repainted?
• Where was it serviced? Ask for the service records or invoices.

Condition

• Any warning lights, or faults you know about?
• When did you last change the oil, tyres and brakes?
• Does the AC cool properly in summer?
• Any leaks, noises or smells?
• Is the mileage in kilometres, and original? Imported cars can show miles.
• Can I start the car cold myself? Ask the seller not to warm it up before you arrive.

Papers and money

• Is the car financed or under a bank loan? It has to be cleared before transfer.
• Any unpaid traffic fines?
• Is the registration valid, and is insurance current?
• Whose name is the registration in? It should match the person selling, or they need a valid authorisation.
• Is the price negotiable? And would you accept an independent inspection before I pay a deposit?

Red flags

• The seller refuses an independent inspection.
• The car is "already warmed up" when you arrive.
• Pressure to pay a deposit today because "another buyer is coming".
• Vague answers about accidents or service history.
• The VIN on the car doesn't match the registration card.
• A price far below similar cars.

The best question of all: "Can I have it inspected by an independent inspector?" A seller with a good car will usually say yes. We come to the car.

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